The Horticulture Diagnostic Lab is operated by our Master Gardener volunteers. They can identify plants, insects and also diagnose plant diseases or damage caused by insects. Soil pH testing is also available in our Horticulture Diagnostic Lab. Samples for diagnosis may be dropped off at the Dutchess County Farm & Home Center M-F, 8:30 AM- 4 PM. Please allow 7-10 business days for diagnostic results.
Insect or Plant identification |
$20.00 per sample |
|
Diagnose plant damage/disease |
$20.00 per sample |
|
Soil testing pH only |
$15.00 per sample |
All samples must include the submissions form and payment in order to be analyzed by our lab. We will not process samples until we have received payment in full. We accept Cash, Check and Credit Cards.
Our Master Gardeners also operate our Horticulture Hotline, (845) 677-5067 that is open from April through October on Wednesday’s from 9am to 12pm, during inclement weather and travel restrictions it may not be staffed.
Here are some general tips on identifying plant diseases. These tips will help you gather the information needed before calling into our hotline or emailing in with questions.
For more information on our diagnostic services, dropping off samples or soil testing, please email or call Francheska Kuilan at fk232@cornell.edu or 845-677-8223 x115.
Written questions can also be submitted at ask2.extension.org. Look for the Ask a New Question button, then select New York from the dropdown menu, and then finally select the county closest to you. If a photograph is included, please ensure it is focused and as close up as possible. These questions will be answered by our Master Gardener volunteers during our scheduled Horticulture Hotline Hours mentioned above.
More information can also be found at Cornell University Diagnostic Services:
Last updated October 14, 2023